Lung cancer warning signs
Most lung cancers affect the cells that line the air passages of the lungs. This is a very aggressive type of cancer and has a higher mortality rate than many other kinds of cancers. The chances of recovery is poor for those whose cancers are detected at a late stage.
The specific in cases of lung cancer depend on the location of the cancer. For instance, when the lung tissues are affected, it can cause breathing difficulties including coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing. The patient may also complain of chest pain.
If the cancer has spread to the esophagus, the patient may report difficulties in swallowing food. If the cancer has affected the nerve tissues, the result may be hoarseness or even paralysis of the vocal cords. There may also be pain that travels down the arm along the outside.
Some symptoms are not linked to the cancer affecting a specific body part. These include fatigue, weakness, weight loss and loss of appetite.
Early detection of the tumor is critically important – late diagnosis can mean a significantly worse prognosis for the patient. Chances of survival drop dramatically when lung cancer progresses from an early stage to an intermediate or late stage disease. Given the low chances of survival characteristic of this disease, it is better to be vigilant.
Stage 4 disease, where the lung cancer has spread to distant body parts including vital organs like the liver, bones and brain, is an advanced malignancy that is very difficult to treat.
The presence of other health conditions like hypertension may introduce complications. In such cases, the doctor might prescribe drugs for treatment of this condition. The presence of any symptoms of elevated blood pressure in a lung cancer patient will cause the doctor to be extra vigilant.
If one of more of the symptoms of lung cancer are present, the doctor may order a CT scan or a chest x-ray. This can often reveal the presence of cancerous lesions in the lungs. The levels of calcium and cortisol in the blood may also give clues about the presence of cancer — many doctors use these tests as part of their diagnostic repertoire.
In the end, your instinct may be the best indicator of all. If something does not feel right, do not hesitate to contact a doctor for further investigation. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your health and well-being.
Please note that the above does not constitute medical, health or any other kind of professional advice or assistance. Make sure you get in touch with a doctor / medical professional for advice and assistance on all health related issues.